Lisa began her journey here at Macclesfield College in 1987 when she enrolled to study her A-Level in English Language and Literature and commented that ‘This experience fired my love of learning and set me on the path to my dream job as a teacher.
The lecturer was a person called Dave Probert and I can honestly say that he was such an inspiration that I never looked back. His love of and passion for literature were completely infectious.
Suddenly, I had been introduced to Metaphysical Poets, Shakespeare, 20th century poetry, postmodernist literature; my adventure with literary texts had begun.’
Following completion of her degree, Lisa did not hesitate in returning to Macclesfield College at the earliest opportunity! Enrolling herself onto an Adult lecturers teaching course which led to completion of her PGCE in Further and Higher Education. The course allowed Lisa to begin her dream teaching a range of subjects her at Macclesfield College, including her favourite Access to HE, a programme which offers opportunities for people who want a second chance to get back into education.
In 2003, Lisa was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis which left her feeling her teaching career would come to an end and struggling with her mobility, It was a very difficult time.
In time, Lisa was back teaching at the College for a couple of hours a week and it was the best decision she ever made, Within a year she was back in the classroom full-time something she did not think she would do again.
Lisa expressed ‘I have seen women and men who have literally turned their lives around and have gone on to have rewarding and professional careers both in industry and in education. I am continuously stopped in the street by ex-students who still regard their time at Macclesfield College as life changing. I even encouraged my mid 40s mother and early 80s grandmother to enrol for evening courses with the College, resulting in them both achieving A-level and GCSE examinations.’
Reflecting on her journey Lisa noted that one of her most important aspects of her time with Macclesfield College was her incredible 35 year association, both as a student and then a teacher.
Lisa finalised ‘This could not have been possible without the support of the college which has always had a human face when dealing with my requirements. Whatever I have needed in terms of resources, flexibility, adjustments, and understanding, has been made available. Whilst I am now a part-time member of staff (semi-retired haha), I still wake up and look forward to coming to work.
The students inspire me and I have never lost sight of the importance of a solid educational foundation, which can change lives for the better. It worked for me and continues to work for our students every day.’
